Los Angeles is a true melting-pot, serving as a city enriched with culture. I always tell folks, “if you want to travel the world in one city, visit LA!” and it’s true. Food is an aspect of culture that is deeply-ingrained within the pores of its people. In black culture, in particular, food is a pathway to the community.
Since moving to LA about a year and a half ago, I’ve immersed myself into some of the restaurant cultures, making a point to celebrate black-owned businesses. When it comes to food recommendations, word-of-mouth is my primary cited source. From trusty-recommended to the first-hand experience, here is a list of black-owned restaurants you need to check out:
1. Comfort LA
Two words: That sauce. Serving fresh organic and heavenly seasoned chicken in a chill kick back atmosphere, Comfort LA is a fave of mine. They even host games and trivia nights with music! At Comfort LA, you will be engulfed in the warm embrace of black culture. I mean, they have a chicken order called, "Jamal." Peak blackness and I am here for it.
You Need To Order : The mean greens and fresh cuts (the latter of which gotta be fried in chicken batter, because omg the crispy outer shell will change your life).
2. My Two Cents
I think My Two Cents is the black LA version of Cheers. As soon as you walk through the doors, you feel like family. Pro tip: Whenever you visit, tell them it's your first time there and get a nice greeting surprise from the owner and/or cooks! Featuring a diverse (as in, there are suitable vegan options!) menu of New Orleans style food, My Two Cents is an experience. Celebrities also love it! I ran into Ava DuVernay and sat next to (and chair-danced with) Queen Latifah the couple of times I've been.
You Need To Order : Fried catfish and parmesan grits.
3. Trap Kitchen
Ok, maybe I'm cheating a bit since this place doesn't have a sit-down option, but come on! I couldn't leave off this dope-named place! Plus, the story behind it is dope. Started by rival gang members, Trap Kitchen began by delivering small plates to the community and have since grown into a larger delivery service, even catering for the likes of Kendrick Lamar and Snoop Dogg.
You Need To Order : Pineapple Bowl
4. Post & Beam
This place is doing its part in joining the evolution of soul food without losing its tradition. From brunch to dinner, to Sunday Supper, Post & Beam adds a sophisticated twist to good "down home" cooking. Quality ingredients are its bragging rights, featuring brunch with cage-free eggs and other organic items. Their cocktails are dope, too: Ginger Mojito, anyone?
You Need To Order : Certified Angus Beef Short Ribs, Fresh Horseradish
LA definitely has its share of mainstream burger spots such as In N Out and Fatburger, but Mo Better Burgers needs to be added to the widespread "You Oughta Know" list! A natural farming supporter, Mo Better Burgers offers sizeable cooked-to-order angus quality beef burgers with your choice of delicious toppings such as bacon and a free range egg. Oh, and if you ain't about that red meat life, there are turkey burgers, too!
You Need To Order : An angus burger with cheddar jack mix cheese instead of American.
6. Messob Ethiopian Restaurant
Gathering together to commune over food is one of my favorite pastimes. Ethiopian food is probably one of the best facets of this concept. Getting down and dirty eating with your hands over a communal plate of food is an unmatched experience that everyone should try at least once. Basically, you haven't lived until you scooped up some tibs and doro wat with injera.
You Need To Order : Super Messob Exclusive (treat yo'self!!)
These are just a taste of the many delectable restaurants in the city of Angels. What are some of your favorites?
